I am rebuilding my 350. took it apart and found plastic pieces in oil pick screen. timing chain was so loose that i could remove it with out taking off the gears. Was wondering if camshaft gear had plastic/nylon on it to reduce the chain noise in that engine?

 

Yup. That's your culprit.

- Eric

 

Yes the Olds engines used a nylon cam gear from the factory. You found what used to be the teeth in the oil pickup. A metal replacement gear is available.

 

I have some NOS plastic ones if need be

yes, they only last about 8 yrs/ 80k miles.

 

OK thought that was it just needed the double check. I have new cam kit coming with timing set,lifters and springs.